Pakistanis launch ‘buy Turkish products’ campaign

The U.S. recent decision to double tariffs on Turkish aluminium and steel imports has been widely criticized by Pakistani citizens.

Social media users in Pakistan have launched a campaign calling for purchase of Turkish products and lira.

Ali Osman, a social media user, wrote on Twitter: "In early 1920s, Muslims of the sub-continent stood by Turkish brothers when they were in trouble, and now after 100 years we will again stand by our Turkish brothers and sisters."

Turkey and the U.S. are currently experiencing rocky relations following Washington's imposition of sanctions on Interior Minister Süleyman Soylu and Justice Minister Abdulhamit Gül for not releasing American Pastor Andrew Brunson, who faces terrorism charges in Turkey.

U.S. President Donald Trump ramped up his attack on Turkey by increasing U.S. tariffs on Turkish aluminium and steel imports to 20 percent and 50 percent, respectively.

Anti-U.S. sentiments in Pakistan is on the rise since January, after Trump suspended military aid to the country by accusing Islamabad of providing sanctuaries to Taliban factions fighting American troops in neighboring Pakistan.

"We have given a clear message to the U.S. that Pakistan would not follow its policy on the region but wants an equal say in all matters pertaining to peace," said Fawad Chudhary, the spokesman for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which is set to form next government in the country.

Ibrahim Qazi, a Lahore-based political analyst, suggested the PTI-led government should immediately sign the Free Trade Agreement with Turkey and should express solidarity with the country.

"Pakistan should also set a stage for Turkey to benefit from Shanghai Cooperation Organization," Qazi added.